Is it safe for me to travel during pregnancy?

In most cases it is safe to travel during pregnancy. Planning ahead can make travel safer for you when pregnant. The second trimester (weeks 13 to 26 of pregnancy) is usually the best time to travel, as the risk of pregnancy complications is the lowest.

Travel by air, sea, road or rail are all possible during pregnancy, including international travel. Travel by air and sea may be restricted towards the end of your pregnancy. It is best to check directly with your airline or cruise line for their specific rules.

If you have pregnancy complications, it may not be safe for you to travel. Your doctor or midwife can offer you advice based on your personal and medical situation.

If you are travelling internationally, you may be at increased risk of infectious diseases, including influenza (flu). You can check the safety risks, as well as the vaccination and testing requirements for international travel on Smartraveller.

What should I do if I plan to travel during pregnancy?

Travel during pregnancy requires planning. You should:

• Speak with your doctor or midwife to help you decide whether it is safe for you to travel and if there are any special precautions you should take.
• Check if you need any specific vaccinations.
• Take a copy of your medical records with you in case you need them while you're away.
• Learn about healthcare services close to where you are staying, that specialise in pregnancy.
• Check that your travel insurance covers you for your travel destination, stage of pregnancy, and any pre-existing health conditions.

Is air travel safe during pregnancy?

The risk of a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis or DVT) forming in your leg is higher when flying and up to 2 weeks after air travel. During pregnancy, you have a higher risk of developing a DVT, due to changes in your blood flow and circulation. You should check with your doctor before you fly, as some people may be advised to take medicine to reduce the chance of blood clots.

You can lower the risk of developing a blood clot by:

• staying hydrated
• wearing compression stockings
• taking regular walks or stretching during your flight

Some airlines do not allow people to fly after a certain week of pregnancy. You should check with your airline before you book as rules change between domestic and international travel.

Some airlines may also require a letter from your doctor confirming your due date and that it is safe for you to travel.

Can I have vaccinations before I travel?

Some vaccinations are safe and routinely recommended during pregnancy, such as the influenza (flu) vaccine and the whooping cough vaccine. Some vaccines, including live virus vaccines, are not suitable during pregnancy.

You can check which travel vaccinations are recommended for your destination on Smartraveller. Discuss with your doctor which vaccines you can have while you're pregnant.

Diseases to be aware of when travelling and pregnant

Malaria is an infection carried by mosquitos in some parts of the world. If you become infected with malaria while pregnant, you are more likely to have a miscarriage, premature labour or stillbirth. If you are pregnant, you should avoid travel to countries where malaria is a problem.

Zika virus is also spread by mosquitos and can be very dangerous for your unborn baby. If you are pregnant, you should not travel to an area with Zika virus. You also shouldn't have unprotected sex with someone who has been in an area with Zika virus or who has been diagnosed with Zika virus in the last 3 months.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) research shows that if you are pregnant and unvaccinated, you have a slightly higher risk of severe illness and hospital admission. The COVID-19 vaccine is not routinely recommended, but it is safe to have during any stage of pregnancy.

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is also spread through mosquitos. It is an uncommon infection, but it increases the chance of miscarriage if you are infected during your first or second trimester. If you are at a high risk of catching JEV, talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated.

How do I stay safe when travelling by car or train?

Travelling for a long time in a car or train can be uncomfortable for your legs and back, especially during pregnancy. Being stationary for a long time can also increase your risk of a blood clot in your legs.

To help you stay safe and comfortable:

• Move around and stretch your knees and ankles as much as possible.
• Stop and take a break at least every 2 hours if possible.
• If you are on a train, take walks to move around.

Travelling can sometimes lead to motion sickness. You may prefer to plan trips for the second trimester of your pregnancy when nausea and vomiting are less common.

If you need travel sickness medicines, check with your doctor about which options are safe for pregnancy.

Do I have to wear a seatbelt if I'm pregnant?

You should continue to wear your seatbelt during pregnancy. The lap sash of the belt should go around your hips and under your stomach. The shoulder strap should be above your stomach and between your breasts.

If you are in a car accident while pregnant, see a doctor or midwife as soon as possible to check for any problems, even if you feel fine.

Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid when travelling?

Depending on where you are travelling to you may need to avoid food and local water.

Traveller's diarrhoea can be particularly dangerous for if you are pregnant.

If there is any concern about the safety of the water, use bottled water, including for brushing your teeth and making ice. If bottled water is not available, you can use boiled water or use chlorine-based purifying tables to treat the water.

Iodine-based water treatment systems are not recommended if you are pregnant, as the iodine can affect your baby's development.

Try to eat food that has been freshly prepared. Avoid raw or undercooked foods which may contain bacteria. Soft cheeses, unpasteurised milk products and salads may also contain harmful bacteria and should not be eaten during pregnancy.

Food aversions are common during pregnancy, and wherever you are, you should try to maintain a healthy diet which includes plenty of water to keep you hydrated. Avoid drinking alcohol, as there is no known safe level of drinking during pregnancy.

Resources and support

Speak with you midwife or doctor if you are planning on travelling during pregnancy. They can help you with any questions you may have and give information you may need regarding your travel.

NSW Health and The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have more information on travel and pregnancy.

You can find further information on vaccinations for people who are planning pregnancy, pregnant or breastfeeding in the Australian Immunisation Handbook on the Australian Government website.